At a Crossroads

Life is constantly presenting us with challenging moments and how we choose to handle those situations is primarily left up to us. In fact, I think that one of the prominent differences between us and other primates is our free will, which enables us to dictate and even change our own destinies. In that regard, when we come at a crossroads where we have to select one path or another, how can we make sure that we make the correct decision? In fact, what exactly is "correct"? Is that not a relative term and does it not vary on an individual basis? If there is not one right answer for every decision, then how does one make the appropriate decision for him/herself?

I want to argue that making the correct decisions for oneself is a learned process, meaning that it is directly related to our past experiences and our degree of self-knowledge/knowledge about our surroundings. I think that the more experienced and mature (mentally) we are, the better our odds at making the correct decisions for ourselves. This maturity is not easily obtainable and requires a process that involves making mistakes and learning from those mistakes- key word being, learning. The more receptive we are to understanding the circumstances around us, the more wisdom we will develop. Eventually, we will learn our personal likes and dislikes, as well as those of others, and based on that understanding, we can make more suitable decisions for ourselves. I think that the practice of this methodology will, in turn, lead to the abolishment of the concept of regret, altogether- for how can one regret a thoughtful decision that has led to the development of a greater understanding?!